A man has admitted beating a woman and harassing her, but is disputing his accuser’s version of events.

David Lawrence, of Flaxen Road in Chingford, is said to have called Louise Burns 42 times in five days in June.

He admitted harassment, assault and destroying her phone when he appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court yesterday, but has challenged the facts presented by prosecutors.

Lawrence will now face a hearing at Harlow Magistrates Court on January 22, where his version of events will be presented before sentencing.